What To Do If You Have an Auto Accident

An accident in one of our classic cars is probably the last thing we want to imagine. Whether you just happened to accidentally rear-end someone on your commute or you've been in a larger wreck, taking the proper steps after a car crash is essential.

But not preparing for the worst can leave you vulnerable if a car crash should occur, so it’s a good idea to have a plan in place. If you can at least think through the scenario now, then you’ll know exactly what to do if an accident ever does happen.

Steps You Can Take Prior to a Car Accident

Before an accident ever occurs it is smart to have specialized insurance for your vintage vehicle so that you have peace of mind that your investment is protected. Your classic car will be worth more than the value given in its blue book value, so your insurance should be able to understand that. There are three types of classic car insurance, and these are:

• Agreed Value (AV)
• Stated Value (SV)
• Actual Cash Value

Click here to learn more about the types of insurance for your classic car.

13 Steps to Take After a Classic Car Accident

Though every situation is different, here are some basic steps you can follow if you’re involved in an accident:

1. Remain as calm as you can. Take a second to orient yourself to your surroundings and ensure that you are in a safe spot on the road or shoulder.
2. Put your vehicle in Park and shut off the engine.
3. Check yourself for injuries first, and then observe the status of your passengers.
4. Call 911 to report the car accident immediately, and apply first aid as directed to anyone who has injuries.
5. Turn your hazard lights on to alert others to your disabled vehicle.
6. If it’s a relatively minor accident, attempt to move your vehicle out of the roadway.
7. Gather personal information from other parties, but do not admit fault. Include full name(s), phone and address, make/model and license plate numbers of involved vehicles, insurance company name, and policy number.
8. Request contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
9. If possible, take photos of the accident scene and both vehicles.
10. Give an accurate and detailed statement to the investigating officer. Stick with the facts, and don’t speculate.
11. Call for roadside assistance if your vehicle is not drivable.
12. Contact your agent, submit a claim on the Hagerty.com website, or call us at 1-800-385-0274 to report the accident.
13. Keep a file for all of your accident and insurance-related documents on your phone at all times.
14. Look into how to restore your classic car and find any parts that are needed.

Car accidents happen to the best of us and making sure that your specialty vehicle is covered by the best insurance possible is important. Reach out to Hagerty with any questions you may have on protecting your classic car.